Notes: Played linebacker, defensive end and tight end as a North Carolina prep. Redshirted in 2006. Played 11 games in '07, starting four at strong-side linebacker, and recorded 42 tackles (eight on special teams), 7½ for loss and one sack with one pass breakup and two forced fumbles. Did not play against Wofford. Started 9-of-10 games in which he played at weak-side linebacker in '08 and totaled 80-11-1 with five pass breakups, four interceptions (33-yard TD against Clemson) and one forced fumble. Suffered a sprained right ankle against East Carolina, missed the next two contests, aggravated the injury and sat out against Maryland. Sat out the '09 season after suffering multiple injuries in a summer car accident (collapsed lung, fibula and tibia fractures in his left leg, separated left shoulder and broken ribs). Fell asleep at the wheel and was charged with careless and reckless driving. Returned from injuries to start all 13 games at middle linebacker in '10 and registered 92-21½-7 with six pass breakups and three forced fumbles. Team captain. Elected to not work out at the Combine.

Positives: Has good size with long arms and large hands. Very tough and instinctive. Generally plays on his feet with good body control. Triggers quickly and plays faster than he times. Runs downhill. Effective run blitzer. Takes good angles in pursuit. Chases hard and hits with pop - good wrap tackler. Productive and disruptive when healthy. Highly intense and competitive. Loves football and has a sense for the game. Good character.

Negatives: Below-average timed speed. Average suddenness and explosion. Does not have acceleration to range sideline to sideline. Can play with better pad level. Overruns some plays and shows tightness in his hips - struggles to come to balance and tackle in space. Looks more natural outside - tries to slip and avoid instead of facing up blocks and most of his production is clear view. Stiff in coverage. Durability and injury history need to be looked into - has a metal rod in his leg dating back to his car accident.

Summary: Persevered from a life-threatening car accident and not only returned to the field, but was a playmaker for the Wolfpack during a healthy senior season despite playing out of position inside. Is not the same athlete he was pre-accident and is not a prototype linebacker - lacks ideal strength for the strong side, take-on strength for the middle and speed for the weak side - but is a solid football player with a good motor who could make a roster as a swing backup.